Seat Alhambra and VW Sharan – in detail - Introduction

Seat and Volkswagen have revealed replacements for the Alhambra and Sharan.

Both models adopt sliding rear side doors for the first time, making it easier to get in and out, and the Passat-based platform that underpins them means there’s extra legroom.

Their second- and third-row seats now fold into the floor rather than having to be tumbled or lifted out of the way when extra floor space is needed for cargo.

Overall, they are around 220mm longer than the models they replace, and quite a bit wider. As a result, the space in all three rows is more adult-friendly, particularly as the three individual central seats slide on runners to allow legroom to be shared out.

Both cars are a fraction lower than their predecessors, giving a bit more clearance beneath up-and-over garage doors, and also around 30 kilos lighter, despite their enlarged footprint. However, that weight can soon be put back with the optional motorised rear doors and tailgate.